It is probable that Ned Hinkley did not altogether think of the
stranger as he expressed himself. But he saw how deep a hold his
appearance had taken, in an adverse way, upon the mind and feelings
of his relative and friend, and his rude, but well-meant endeavors
were intended to console his companion, after his own fashion, by
the exhibition of a certain degree of sympathy.

His efforts, however well intended, did not produce any serious
effect. William Hinkley, though he forbore the subject, and every
expression which might indicate either soreness or apprehension,
was still the victim of that presentiment which had touched him on
the very first appearance of the stranger. He felt more than ever
apprehensive on the score of his misplaced affections. While his
cousin had been watching the stranger, HIS eyes had been fixed
upon those of Margaret Cooper, and his fears were increased and
strengthened, as he perceived that she was quite too much absorbed
in other thoughts and objects to behold for an instant the close
espionage which he maintained upon her person. His heart sunk within
him, as he beheld how bold was her look, and how undisguised the
admiration which it expressed for the handsome stranger.

"You will go home with me, William?" said the cousin, The other
hesitated.

"I think," said he, after a moment's pause, "I should rather go
to my own home. It is a sort of weakness to let a stranger drive
a man off from his own family, and though I somehow dislike this
person's looks, and am very sorry that John Cross brought him to
our house, yet I shouldn't let a prejudice which seems to have no
good foundation take such possession of my mind. I will go home,